Age Partnership has revealed further expansion plans for 2018, which include doubling its office space to 35,000 sq. ft., and the creation of a further 200 new jobs.

In 2016, the Leeds-based retirement specialist saw its staffing levels increase by 43% to over 500 full time employees.

Andrew Thirkill (pictured), executive chairman of Age Partnership, said: “2017 was a huge year for us – we bedded in new standard mortgage and wills services; branched out into funeral plans, savings and investments, and insurance; grew our workforce by virtually half; and, advised on one in every four of all equity release cases in the UK.

“Going into 2018, the equity release market is already at an all-time high, and with many major high street names now either considering, or having already entered the market, it will continue to thrive. Our expansion plans are aimed at ensuring we continue to keep pace with market demands.”

Based at Thorpe Park, Leeds, Age Partnership’s office expansion will see it take over 2200 Century Way in its entirety from February. The additional 18,000 sq. ft. will allow for the firm’s growth plans to be realised under one roof, while also providing an adaptable working environment for its existing workforce.

The 200 new jobs planned for 2018 will cover a wide range of roles, from administrative to equity release and standard mortgage advisors – and will include Leeds-based office roles, as well as a number of remote working and field-based positions.

Thirkill added: “Our plans for the wider Age Partnership Group anticipate yet more growth, and are being implemented with an eye firmly on the customer centric approach that has served us so well over the years.

“Whilst turnover for the Group has exceeded £50m for the first time, our respected Investor in Customers rating of ‘exceptional’ shows that we continue to stay true to our primary core values.”